Vega Sicilia Valbuena 1996

Roasted plum, redcurrant, iron and smoky oak open the nose, with a savory thread of beefsteak tomato adding meaty depth. Richer and more generous than the '95, yet a firm seam of acidity holds the whole thing in check. Tannins are fine-grained and thoroughly polished, and the finish carries real authority. Classic Valbuena.